Choosing the right solar panel for your campervan can seem complicated, but it’s an important step for your energy independence. You need to think carefully about several things to avoid making a mistake. This guide will help you see things more clearly by addressing five essential points. The idea is to give you the information you need so that you can make an informed choice that is tailored to your specific needs. We’ll talk about consumption, available space, types of panels, regulators, and even brands, so that your campervan solar panel is perfect for your adventures.
Key Points
- Accurately assessing your energy needs is the first step in choosing a suitable campervan solar panel.
- The available surface area on the roof of your campervan determines the size and number of solar panels you can install.
- Understanding the differences between panel types (monocrystalline, polycrystalline, flexible) is important to optimise the efficiency of your campervan solar panel.
- Choosing the right charge controller is essential to protect your batteries and maximise the energy production of your campervan solar panel.
- The reputation of the campervan solar panel brand is an indicator of quality and durability.
1. Determine your consumption
Before you start buying a solar panel for your campervan, it is essential to properly assess your energy needs. Forget the idea of buying a kit at random hoping it will be enough. An accurate estimate will allow you to choose a suitable system, avoiding wasted money and frustration associated with a lack of autonomy.
The first step is to list all the electrical appliances you plan to use in your campervan. This includes lighting, refrigerator, television, phone chargers, laptops, and any other energy-intensive devices. For each device, note its power (in Watts) and the estimated daily usage time (in hours).
Don’t forget to take seasonal variations into account. Your lighting needs will probably be greater in winter than in summer. Similarly, if you plan to use an electric heater, its consumption can quickly drive up your energy bill.
Once you have this list, you can calculate your total daily consumption in Watt-hours (Wh). To do this, multiply the power of each device by its daily usage time, then add the results. For example:
- LED lamp: 5W x 4 hours = 20 Wh
- Refrigerator: 50W x 8 hours = 400 Wh
- Laptop: 60W x 2 hours = 120 Wh
Total consumption: 20 Wh + 400 Wh + 120 Wh = 540 Wh
It is important to note that some devices, such as refrigerators, do not operate continuously. Estimate their actual operating time to get a more accurate estimate. You can also use an online configurator to help you.
Here are some examples of daily energy consumption and the corresponding solar kit power:
| Your daily energy consumption | Solar Kit Power | Number of panels | Panel power | Panel dimension | Weight for 1 panel |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 350 Wh/day | 175W | 1 | 175W | 1480 x 668 x 30 mm | 12 kg |
| 400 Wh/day | 215W | 1 | 215W | 1580 x 808 x 35 mm | 15 kg |
| 420 Wh/day | 230W | 2 | 115W | 1015 x 668 x 30 mm | 8 kg |
Remember that this estimate is a base. It is always better to allow a safety margin to cope with the unexpected and less sunny days. Also think about the power for RVs or vans, which may vary depending on the space available.
Finally, if you plan to use an air conditioner, be aware that this device is particularly energy-intensive. It is crucial to assess its consumption accurately, using for example a specific consumption calculator. In some cases, it may be more sensible to opt for a gas supply for this type of device.
2. Determine the available surface area
When it comes to solar panels for campervans, space is often a limited resource. It is therefore essential to accurately assess the available surface area on the roof of your vehicle. This step will determine the maximum solar power you can install. A realistic assessment will avoid disappointment and optimise your investment.
3. Choose the type of panel
Choosing the type of solar panel is a crucial step in optimising your installation on your campervan. There are mainly three broad categories of panels, each with specific advantages and disadvantages. It is important to understand these differences in order to make an informed choice, adapted to your needs and your budget. The performance of the solar panel is a key factor to consider.
Monocrystalline solar panels
Monocrystalline panels are made from a single silicon crystal. This complex manufacturing process gives them a high energy yield, which means they produce more electricity per unit area than other types of panels. They are recognisable by their uniform colour, usually black or dark blue.
- Advantages: High efficiency, long life, good performance even in low light conditions.
- Disadvantages: More expensive to buy than other types of panels.
- Ideal for: Installations where space is limited and maximum energy production is required. If you are looking to optimise space on your roof, a monocrystalline solar panel might be the best choice.
Polycrystalline solar panels
Polycrystalline panels are made from several silicon crystals melted together. Their efficiency is slightly lower than that of monocrystalline panels, but they remain an attractive option due to their more affordable cost. They are distinguished by their bluish appearance and their less uniform surface.
- Advantages: Cheaper than monocrystalline panels, good value for money.
- Disadvantages: Slightly lower efficiency, potentially shorter lifespan.
- Ideal for: Installations where budget is a major constraint and where sufficient space is available. For an installation in La Rochelle, you need to assess the sunshine carefully.
Flexible solar panels
Flexible solar panels are an attractive alternative for campervans because of their light weight and flexibility. They can be glued directly to the roof of the vehicle, which makes them easy to install and reduces wind resistance. However, their efficiency is generally lower than that of rigid panels, and their lifespan may be shorter.
- Advantages: Lightweight, flexible, easy to install.
- Disadvantages: Lower efficiency, potentially shorter lifespan, more susceptible to damage.
- Ideal for: Campervans where weight and aerodynamics are important factors, and where a discreet installation is desired. The installation of flexible photovoltaic panels is simpler, but they must be well protected from the weather.
It is important to note that the power indicated on the panel is a determining factor, regardless of the type of panel chosen. However, other characteristics should also be taken into account, such as the temperature coefficient, which influences energy production depending on the ambient temperature.
Before making your decision, it is advisable to compare the different options available on the market, taking into account your specific needs, your budget and the constraints related to your campervan. Do not hesitate to seek advice from a professional to help you make the best choice.
4. Choose the regulator
The regulator is an essential component of your campervan solar installation. It manages the charging of the battery from the solar panels. Its main role is to protect the battery against overcharging and deep discharging, which could reduce its lifespan. There are two main types of regulators: PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) and MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking).
PWM regulators are simpler and cheaper, but they are less efficient, especially when the voltage of the solar panels is significantly different from that of the battery. MPPT regulators, on the other hand, are more sophisticated and optimise energy production by searching for the maximum power point of the solar panels. They are more expensive, but they can save up to 30% more energy, which can be a considerable advantage, especially if you have high consumption or limited panel surface area.
The choice of regulator depends on several factors:
- The voltage of your battery (12V or 24V).
- The total power of the solar panels.
- Your budget.
It is important to properly size the regulator according to the power of the solar panels and the capacity of the battery. An undersized regulator will not be able to handle all the power from the panels, while an oversized regulator will be more expensive and will not provide additional benefits.
To choose well, you must also consider the panel power and the battery voltage. For example, the MPPT 75/10 has its limits. Do not hesitate to contact specialists such as Solencia for personalised advice.
5. Check the panel brand
When it comes to solar panels for campervans, the brand matters. You can find everything on the market, and it’s easy to get lost. Some brands are known for their reliability, others… less so.
You should know that many brands claim to be European, but manufacturing often takes place elsewhere. So, why bother checking the brand? Well, in Europe, brands are subject to strict standards. Choosing a European brand ensures that you have compliant equipment. Chinese brands, on the other hand, are not always subject to the same rules, even if you sometimes see a fake CE logo. The quality can therefore vary enormously.
Why check the panel brand
Of course, price is an important factor, but it shouldn’t be the only one. A recognised brand is often a guarantee of quality and durability. You can find cheap solar panels, but you have to be careful. These panels are sometimes sold under white labels, i.e. unknown brands or bearing the name of the seller. In this case, it is better to move on. It is important to choose your solar panel carefully.
Compare solar panels
In addition to the brand, other criteria should be taken into account when choosing a good solar panel. You have to look at the efficiency, the warranty, and the temperature coefficient. A very powerful panel but with a high temperature coefficient will produce less as soon as the temperature rises. This is not ideal. You must therefore compare all these criteria to get an idea of the overall quality. It is important to understand the solar installations well.
Good and bad brands of solar panels
There are reputable brands that have proven themselves. Here are some examples:
- SunPower (SolarWorld)
- Aleo
- Victron Energy
- Uniteck
- Panasonic
- LG
- REC
These brands are known for the quality of their products and their reliability. They generally offer good warranties and good performance. It is important to find out about the solar panel manufacturers before making your choice.
Choosing a recognised brand means investing in the durability and performance of your solar installation. This may cost a little more at the start, but it is often a worthwhile investment in the long term.
Before buying, make sure you look at the brand of the panel. This is important to be sure you have a quality product. To learn more about the best brands, visit our website now!
In summary: choosing the right campervan solar panel
Choosing the right solar panel for your campervan isn’t that complicated when you know what to look for. You need to think about what appliances you use, the space you have on the roof, and the type of panel that will work best. Monocrystalline panels are often a good choice, but there are also flexible ones if you have space constraints. Don’t forget to check the warranty and the efficiency. A good panel is an investment that will serve you well on the road. Take the time to compare, and you’ll find what you need to enjoy autonomy in peace.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know what power solar panel to choose for my campervan?
To choose the right solar panel, you first need to know how much energy you use. Look at the consumption of your electrical appliances (refrigerator, lights, etc.) to estimate your daily electricity needs. This will help you choose a panel with the right power.
What is the importance of the available surface area on the roof of the campervan?
The available surface area on the roof of your campervan is very important. Measure the space well to know what size panel you can install. This directly influences the maximum power that your solar installation can produce.
What are the different types of solar panels and which one should I choose?
There are different types of solar panels: monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and flexible. Monocrystalline panels are often more efficient and take up less space, but they are more expensive. Polycrystalline panels are cheaper but a little less efficient. Flexible panels are useful if your roof is not flat. The choice depends on your budget and the space you have available.
What is a charge controller for and how do I choose it?
The charge controller is essential to protect your batteries. It manages the energy produced by the solar panel so that it does not overcharge your batteries. There are MPPT regulators, which are more efficient, and PWM regulators, which are simpler and cheaper. The choice depends on the power of your panel and the voltage of your batteries (12V or 24V).
Why is it important to check the brand of the solar panel?
The brand of the solar panel is a sign of quality. Good brands guarantee that their products are reliable and last a long time. It is advisable to choose recognised brands to avoid unpleasant surprises and ensure that the panel will work well for many years.
Can a solar panel recharge the starter battery of the campervan?
Yes, a solar panel can recharge the starter battery of your campervan, but you need special equipment called a “coupler-separator” or a charge controller with a dedicated output for the engine battery. This ensures that both batteries are properly charged without discharging each other.
How do I optimise the orientation of my solar panel for better production?
To optimise energy production, tilt your solar panel towards the sun. The ideal angle changes depending on the season and your geographical location. In summer, a lower angle is often better, while in winter, a steeper angle is preferable. Some supports allow you to adjust the tilt.
What maintenance is required for a campervan solar panel?
The maintenance of a solar panel is quite simple. It should be cleaned regularly to remove dust, leaves or dirt that can reduce its efficiency. Use water and a soft sponge. Also check the cables and connections from time to time to make sure they are in good condition.
